THE Scottish and UK Governments have signed a £70 million growth deal for Argyll and Bute.
The 10-year rural growth deal was put on hold last year but each Government has now committed £25m, with the local council and others contributing a further £20m.
Part of the deal is £9m to finish the refurbishments of the A-listed 1938 art deco Rothesay Pavilion on the Isle of Bute, creating an events space, offices and café.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes and Scottish Secretary Ian Murray took part in a signing ceremony in Rothesay on Monday, along with council leader Jim Lynch.
Forbes said: “Argyll and Bute is full of potential with its rich history, spectacular scenery, vibrant communities and abundance of natural resources.
“We are providing £25 million through this deal to create jobs, attract investment and secure the region’s economic future.
“The deal will support projects to drive innovation in marine science, support training that enables local people to access jobs and boost tourism to deliver sustainable economic growth.”
Funding for an investment deal in Argyll and Bute was put on hold in September 2024, leaving it the only area in Scotland without some form of growth deal.
First Minister John Swinney promised to sign the deal as part of his programme for government which he delivered in September 2024.
The funding is aimed to create 300 jobs and bring an additional 70,000 visitors to the region each year.
Housing developments on the Islands of Mull and Islay were among projects earmarked for funding from the project, along with a sea sports training facility in Campbeltown.
Commenting on the funding, Ian Murray said: “It was an absolute privilege to visit the Isle of Bute to sign the transformational £70 million Argyll and Bute rural growth deal.
“Being the final of Scotland’s 12 city and growth deals, it was an extra special moment.
“This means a package of more than £3 billion UK Government and partner investment is driving local growth and improving living standards for communities the length and breadth of Scotland.”
